The Crispiest Classic Potato Latkes

Want the *best* crispy latkes? This potato latke recipe is a Hanukkah classic! Crispy edges, fluffy interior, and easy enough for anyone. Get the secret now!

May 26, 2025
By Olivia.

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Alright, let's dive into the delicious world of Potato Latkes ! Ever wondered how to make those perfectly crispy Potato Pancakes Easy ? Well, you've come to the right place!

Ready for the Best Latke Recipe Ever?

Honestly, who doesn't love a good latke? it's like a warm hug in a crispy, golden package. i've been making these for years, tweaking and perfecting.

Trust me, this recipe's a keeper. it is a solid recipe, great as potato dinner recipes , specially if you are looking for a potato latkes recipe , or latke recipe it self.

Did you know that in some cultures, serving and sharing this kind of food is a symbol of joy, health, and a shared future together?

A Classic with a Twist

These potato latkes are more than just fried potatoes. they're a cultural icon, especially around hanukkah. but honestly, they're amazing any time of year.

This recipe is medium difficulty. it takes about 45- 50 minutes to make around 12-15 latkes. perfect for sharing...or not!

Why You'll Love These Creative Salad Ideas

Okay, so maybe you're not thinking " gourmet salad recipes " right now, but hear me out. seriously though, a simple green salad really complements the richness of these latkes, like it cuts through that delicious fried-ness and balances everything out.

Also potato salad ideas is also a great partner, for all the flavors that can be paired

The best part? these latkes are super comforting and satisfying. they're also a great way to use up leftover potatoes.

Plus, they're guaranteed to be a hit at any party or gathering. each bite is an explosion of flavor and texture.

Golden brown crispy out side, and soft and fluffy inside.

Time to gather your ingredients!

Alright, let's talk about what you'll need to whip up these awesome latkes! we are making the crispiest classic potato latkes (that even grandma would approve of) .

Honestly, having the right stuff makes all the difference. it makes everything easier and tastier.

Ingredients & Equipment

Main Players

For these potato pancakes easy, here's the lowdown on the main stuff.

• You'll need 2 pounds (900g) Russet potatoes, peeled. Russets are key. Look for firm potatoes without sprouts.
• Grab 1 medium yellow onion, peeled. Any yellow onion will do the trick.
• Next, 2 large eggs, lightly beaten.
• Then, 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour. Plain old flour.
• Don't forget 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Plus, more to taste.
• A dash of 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
• Finally, vegetable oil, about 1-2 cups . This depends on your pan.

I remember one time, I tried using waxy potatoes instead of Russets. Big mistake. The latkes were soggy. Lesson learned.

Seasoning Notes: It's All About the Flavor

Here’s how to boost the flavour for this Latke Recipe .

• Salt and pepper is the base.
• Experiment with garlic powder. It gives a little something extra.
• Onion powder is an easy way to get additional flavor.

For substitutions? Try using matzo meal if you're going for a more traditional latke. It’s what my grandma uses!

Looking for Potato Dinner Recipes ? This is definitely a great side, or even a main course. Especially topped with sour cream.

Gear You Need

Here is the essential kit you will need.

• You'll need a box grater. Or, a food processor. I prefer the grater, it's so much easier.
• A large bowl is essential.
• Grab a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. This will help to squeeze out excess water. This is extremely important.
• You'll need a large skillet or frying pan.
• Don't forget a slotted spoon or spatula.
• Paper towels are handy for draining.

Don’t stress if you don’t have a fancy grater. A regular one works just fine. Honestly, half the time I just use a knife. It makes it more rustic.

These Potato Latkes Recipes will be a hit! This is going to be a new favourite. And they go great with Gourmet Salad Recipes too!.

Okay, let's dive into making some seriously good latkes. i'm talking about the crispiest classic potato latkes (that even grandma would approve of).

These are basically little golden disks of potato-y goodness. perfect for hanukkah, or honestly, any time you're craving some comfort food.

You know? this latke recipe is the one .

The Crispiest Classic Potato Latkes Recipe Card

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Preparation time:25 Mins

Cooking time:25 Mins

Servings:13

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds (900g) Russet potatoes, peeled
• 1 medium yellow onion, peeled
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil, for frying (about 1-2 cups, depending on your pan size)

Instructions:

• Grate potatoes and onion using a box grater (or food processor). Place the grated mixture in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This is crucial for crispy latkes!
• In a large bowl, combine the squeezed-out potato mixture, eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
• Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Test the oil temperature by dropping a small shred of potato into the oil; it should sizzle gently.
• Drop about 2-3 tablespoons of the potato mixture per latke into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Flatten the latkes slightly with the back of a spoon.
• Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
• Remove the latkes with a slotted spoon or spatula and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Season with additional salt to taste. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Calories:250 calories

Fat:15g

Fiber:2g

Recipe Info

Category:Side Dish

Cuisine:Jewish

Prep Like a Pro: The Secret to Crispy Latkes

Essential Mise en Place: Get Your Ducks in a Row

Honestly, the mise en place is key here. you'll need 2 pounds of peeled russet potatoes, 1 peeled medium yellow onion, 2 large eggs, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus extra), black pepper, and vegetable oil for frying (about 1-2 cups).

Don't forget the sour cream and applesauce for serving – it's a must !

Time-Saving Tips: Work Smarter, Not Harder

I'm all about efficiency. Peel those potatoes and onion ahead of time. If you have a food processor with a grating attachment, that's a game-changer. It'll save you so much time.

Safety First: Oil Can Be a Beast

Okay, listen up. hot oil is dangerous. keep a close eye on it. don't let it smoke! and always, always have a fire extinguisher handy, just in case.

You know? it's better to be safe than sorry.

From Grate to Great: Making the Perfect Latkes

Step-by-Step Process

1. Grate & Drain: Grate the potatoes and onion. Squeeze out every last drop of liquid using a clean kitchen towel. Seriously, squeeze !
2. Mix It Up: Combine the squeezed potato mixture, eggs, flour, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Heat the Oil: Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Test by dropping a bit of potato in: it should sizzle gently.
4. Fry Time!: Drop 2-3 tablespoons of the mixture into the hot oil. Flatten them a bit. Don't overcrowd the pan.
5. Golden Brown Goodness: Cook for 3- 4 minutes per side, until they're beautifully golden brown.
6. Drain & Devour: Remove the Potato Latkes with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Season with salt while hot.

Latke-Making Secrets: Level Up Your Game

Pro Tips for Latke Perfection

• Squeeze hard! I can't stress this enough. Dry potatoes equal crispy Potato Pancakes Easy .
• Don't rush it. Keep the oil at a steady 350° F ( 175° C) .
• Consider preparing a Gourmet Salad Recipes to contrast with the oily goodness of the Latkes Recipe

Common Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Soggy latkes are the worst . overcrowding the pan is a big culprit. and not squeezing enough water out. trust me, i've been there.

I have tried to add it as potato dinner recipes to my weekly roaster and always went wrong with the timing.

Make-Ahead Options: Because Life Happens

You can grate the potatoes and onions ahead of time. just keep them in cold water to prevent browning. don't forget to squeeze them dry before mixing! now go enjoy your amazing latkes! serve them with the traditional combo: sour cream and applesauce, maybe with a light creative salad ideas .

Recipe Notes for the Crispiest Classic Potato Latkes

Alright, so you're about to embark on your latke recipe journey. awesome! but before you fire up the stove, let’s chat about a few key things.

These aren’t just rules, think of them as my little secrets for potato pancakes easy that i've learned over countless batches.

Trust me, these tips will take your latkes from "meh" to "omg!". honestly, i've had my share of latke fails.

Soggy middles, burnt edges… been there, done that! now let's make sure your potato latkes recipe is one to remember.

Serving Ideas: Let's Get Fancy (or Not!)

Okay, so you've got a mountain of golden-brown potato latkes . now what? of course, the classic move is a dollop of sour cream and applesauce.

But hey, let’s think outside the box. i've seen some creative salad ideas that would work great.

• Plating like a pro: stack those latkes high on a rustic wooden board. garnish with fresh herbs (chives or parsley are great).

  A drizzle of hot sauce is a great idea for the adventurous.

• Sidekick superstars: a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. or, if you're feeling particularly fancy, a side of smoked salmon and crème fraîche.

  These are great gourmet salad recipes and will make it the perfect brunch.

• Drinks that deliver: sparkling cider is always a winner. but honestly, a cold beer also does the trick. i even tried making some potato salad ideas once, but the latkes where the stars.

Storage 101: Keeping the Latke Love Alive

Look, I get it. Sometimes you make too many. Or maybe you're just planning ahead. Here's the lowdown on storing your Potato Latke :

• Fridge rules: Let the latkes cool completely. Then, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Freezing frenzy: yep, you can freeze 'em! place cooled latkes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.

  Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. they'll last for up to 2 months.

• Reheating rescue: the best way to revive them? pop them in a preheated oven at 350° f ( 175° c) for about 10- 15 minutes.

  A little tip from my bubbe's potato dinner recipes , is to put them on a wire rack to prevent them from getting soggy! you can also reheat them in a skillet with a little oil, but watch them carefully so they don’t burn.

Mix it Up: Variations on a Theme

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few ways to tweak the classic Latkes Recipe :

• Sweet potato sunshine: Swap out half the regular potatoes for sweet potatoes. The sweetness adds a lovely twist and a beautiful colour.

• Gluten-free goodness: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or potato starch instead of regular flour. You'll be set for a perfect gluten-free Potato Latkes .

Nutrition Nuggets: Fueling Your Fun

Okay, let’s be real. latkes aren’t exactly a health food. but hey, everything in moderation, right? each serving (about 3 latkes) has an estimated 250 calories.

They also offer a bit of fibre from the potatoes. ultimately, these are delicious potato pancakes easy to make for the whole family.

So, there you have it! all the extra bits and bobs to make your latke experience a smashing success. don't be afraid to experiment and make them your own.

Now go get frying! and remember, a little imperfection just adds to the charm.